GRAI Study: Childhood Gambling Exposure Doubles Problem Gambling Risk

Adults who were exposed to gambling as children face significantly elevated risks of developing problem gambling behaviours, according to new research from Ireland's Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) commissioned by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI).

Key FindingsThe study, based on anonymous responses from over 1,600 adults, found striking correlations between childhood gambling exposure and later problems:

Those who gambled as children are almost twice as likely to experience problem gamblingHaving a gambling parent increases problem gambling likelihood by one thirdCombined exposure—gambling as a child with a frequently gambling parent—quadruples the risk of problem gamblingNotably, the majority of survey respondents had engaged in some form of gambling before age 18. The most common childhood gambling activities included slot machines, scratch cards, horse and dog betting, peer gambling, bingo, and lotteries.

Regulatory ResponseGRAI CEO Anne Marie Caulfield emphasised the compliance implications: "This research provides clear evidence of the long-term potential harms resulting from childhood exposure to gambling. It reinforces the importance of a well-regulated gambling sector that protects children and those vulnerable to gambling harm."

The regulator has responded by publishing new guidance for parents, developed in collaboration with HSE Addiction Services, on discussing gambling risks with children.

Industry ImplicationsThe findings underscore the regulatory focus on youth protection measures that operators must prioritise. As evidence mounts linking childhood exposure to adult harm, operators should anticipate continued scrutiny of age verification systems, marketing restrictions, and family-oriented responsible gambling messaging.